May 2, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 72 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E528-E529]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING BRIDGET MALLO OF BUTTE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. GREG GIANFORTE

                               of montana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 2, 2019

  Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Bridget Mallo of 
Butte for inspiring a community to celebrate life with her courage in 
facing a chronic, progressive, and often fatal disease.
   Bridget was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at six months old. She 
and her family have consulted doctors and been in and out of hospitals 
for 15 years. Despite the prognosis, Bridget never uses her illness as 
an excuse.
   Now 15 years old, Bridget recently faced a decision no teenager 
should have to bear.
   Doctors said that forgoing a lung transplant could leave Bridget 
with four to six weeks to live. Proceeding with further treatment, 
including an organ transplant, did not guarantee a successful outcome 
and meant greater hardships for her loved ones.
   She chose to return home to Butte to spend her remaining time with 
family and friends. Two of her final wishes are particularly touching. 
She wants to ensure her mother is supported and does not face financial 
insecurity. She also asked the community of Butte to come together to 
celebrate life.
   Bridget's courage rallied the community, as individuals and 
businesses responded with donations to support the family. Bridget has 
also brought awareness to the struggles families face when a loved one 
is diagnosed with the incurable disease.
   In late April, residents of Butte celebrated life and Bridget. 
Bridget's loved ones, friends, classmates, and neighbors cheered her 
arrival. Amid much fanfare and a police escort, there were tears of 
sadness and tears of joy.
   Bridget has helped demonstrate the power of community. Family, 
friends, and neighbors have come together to support and celebrate a 
remarkable young woman.
   Bridget's community will long remember her big heart. Because of 
Bridget, they will also

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remember that, despite the challenges one may face in life, there is 
reason to celebrate it.
   Madam Speaker, for inspiring her community with her remarkable 
courage and love of life, I recognize Bridget Mallo for her spirit of 
Montana.

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